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“Prince” for a Day Princeton in May
By Carol Reed
“Princeton” brings to mind the world-famous Princeton University, ivy-
covered halls and fabulous history. A day spent in that charming, colonial
town would not be complete without a visit to the University. Begin with a
guided tour of Nassau Hall, the oldest university building, built in 1756.
The hall was used as a barracks by both armies during the Revolutionary
War. Congress sat in session there in 1783, making Princeton the temporary
capital of the country. (609) 258-3603.
The
McCarter Theatre for the Performing Arts, home of Princeton University’s
Triangle Club, presents plays, dance, music and special events. Many
productions are geared to youngsters. Built in 1929, McCarter contributes
to children’s education by hosting over 36,000 students each year. Their
community programs were honored with the New Jersey Governor’s Award for
distinguished service in theater education. Visit their website for dates
and performances,
www.mccarter.org/welcome.cfm.
Beyond the University, a tour of the cobbled streets and budding lanes of
Princeton will disclose a captivating town filled with colonial history.
Bainbridge House, built in 1766, is an example of mid-Georgian
architecture. During 1783 it provided housing for members of the
Continental Congress. William Bainbridge, hero in the War of 1812, was
born there. Now headquarters for the Historical Society offers programs,
exhibitions, a library, photo archives, and a 2-mile walking tour of
Princeton on Sundays. Admission is free, guided tours are one dollar.
Nassau Street,
(609) 921-6748
Drumthwacket is a Greek Revival mansion and official residence of New
Jersey’s governor. It is open Wednesdays, noon - 2:00PM, and reservations
for tours are required. Visit the rooms that the Governor uses for
meetings and receptions, including his study. Enjoy spring in the lovely
gardens. Learn of New Jersey’s culture including art, history,
architecture and antiques. Also stop at Olden House, a restored farmhouse
and gift shop. (609) 683-0057
www.drumthwacket.org/visit.html.
Morven, the former governor’s mansion, dates from 1754 and is central in
the history of New Jersey and the nation. The property was part of a large
tract purchased from William Penn. Residents of Morven have included a
signer of the Declaration of Independence, one of the first women poets in
the country, two United States Senators, and five New Jersey governors.
(609) 683-4495
www.historicmorven.org/features.html.
Princeton
Battlefield
State Park
saw the most intense battle of its size during the American Revolution.
General George Washington’s troops surprised and defeated a force of
British Regulars here. On site is the Clarke House Museum, built in 1772.
It served as sanctuary for General Mercer, who died there after the battle
of Princeton. The house contains period furniture and Revolutionary War
exhibits. Also visit the Mercer Oak, and the Ionic Colonnade designed by
the architect of the US Capitol Building. A stone patio marks the graves
of 21 British and 15 American soldiers killed in the battle. A War
monument, dedicated by President Harding, is located on Stockton Street
and Bayard Street. (609)
921-0074
www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/parks/princeton.html.
Herrontown Woods Arboretum, features over 30 species of trees. It offers
moderate walking for an easy hike. More than three miles of color-coded
trails helps identify the forest and tell the history of the tract. Birds
and small mammals can be spotted on a quiet walk.
(609)
989-6530 www.princetontwp.org/herron.html.
Terhune Orchards is family fun for “pick your own” fruits and veggies.
Enjoy freshly made cider, pies and other goodies. Get up-close with farm
animals, shop at an old-fashioned farm market, and get back to the way “it
used to be” on the Mount Family’s 200 acres. The Farm Store and Farmyard
are open every day all year.
www.terhuneorchards.com.
Marquand
Park
is a 17 -acre expanse of woodlands, forest glades and open parkland. This
arboretum is outstanding, with many of the 200 species marked for
visitor’s information. See some of the largest trees in the state of
New Jersey.
Many of the walks are paved, making them accessible for wheelchairs.
Besides the arboretum, Marquand features a playground, picnic area and
ball field. (609)
921-9480
www.princetontwp.org/marquand.html.
Check-Out Lawrenceville.
A few miles south of Princeton, historic Lawrenceville is a small town
with beautiful Revolutionary War-era area homes and a Main Street full of
eclectic stores and wonderful restaurants.
Spend an afternoon strolling down the tree-lined streets or stop in any of
the charming shops. And don’t miss Jubilee 2004 on held Sunday, May 30th.
This annual event is a fun-filled afternoon with games, face painting,
live music and other activities for all ages.
Jubilee 2004
Sunday, May 30, 2004
Time: Noon to 4:00 PM
Place: The Village between Gordon & Phillips Avenues
For more information, visit
www.lawrencevillemainstreet.com
Carol Reed is a middle school teacher and freelance journalist who
specializes in travel writing. Carol’s journeys have taken her as close
to home as the New Jersey Pines and as far as the islands in the
Caribbean, New Zealand and Australia.
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